Oar from a single rowing scull formerly owned and used by Henry Robert 'Bobby' Pearce
Datec 1930
Object number00045819
NameOar
MediumWood, varnish, leather, metal
DimensionsOar Length: 9 feet 10 1/4 inches or 3 m
ClassificationsVessels and fittings
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased from Paul Waltz
DescriptionThis single scull is one three known to have been owned by champion Australian rower Bobby Pearce and built by A & H Green. Pearce is the only sculler to have won the single sculls at the Empire Games, Royal Henley (the Diamond Sculls) and the Olympic Games, making him the greatest sculler of the early to mid 1930s. As his greatest sporting achievements were at the height of the Depression he became an Australian sporting legend along with Don Bradman and Phar Lap.HistoryEstablishing when this craft was built is a matter of continued research. Bobby Pearce appears to have rowed different craft over a long period of competition. This craft was obtained by the owner, who was also an experienced Olympic rower for Germany.SignificanceThis single scull is significant because of its association with the champion Australian rower Bobby Pearce, winner of Australia’s first Olympic rowing gold medal in 1928 which was followed by his second gold medal in the 1932 Olympics. It is also has significance as an example of a scull built by A & H Green who were important Sydney builders in this period in the 1930s.
